Computer has become an essential part of our day to day life. Even though we use computer almost everyday, we are not aware of the components and the hardware it requires to run. Most of us buy a pre-build PC thinking that building a computer by ourself is like building a rocket out of scrap materials. But that is not the case. Building a PC is like building a LEGO toy ie.., connecting A to B. Before delving into PC building one should know the basics and the need for the component or hardware that goes into the PC.
Motherboard is the foundation of a computer where all the hardware connects to. It also helps in transmitting data to and fro different hardware. The brain of the computer also known as the CPU is placed on the Motherboard. Different motherboard supports different CPUs. Therefore the compatibility between the motherboard and the CPU should be considered before buying the hardware to build the PC.
CPU also known as Central Processing Unit is considered to be the brain of the computer. All the processes are done by this part of the computer. The popular CPU brands are AMD and Intel. Intel has been leading the market for several decades, while AMD has been climbing the ropes steadily. Currently AMD is considered to be the best CPU available on the market due to its affordable market price and its performance. A drawback of Intel CPU is that its motherboard should be switched out every time you change the CPU due to the fact that Intels chipset varies with new version. But that is not the case with AMD, their chipset stays the same with newer versions and can be upgraded without spending more on Motherboards.
RAM also known as Random Access Memory is the temporary storage unit which helps in storing working data. Example.., when you run a software on the computer, the data of that software is stored in the RAM temporarily. This helps in switching between applications or tabs without the need of loading the data again. With an increase in the RAM storage more software can be ran at the same time.
PSU also known as Power Supply Unit is the hardware which supplies power to all the components of the computer. This is the hardware where you should not save your money on. Always go for the best quality PSU because a low quality PSU can destroy all other components in you PC. While purchasing a PSU, the wattage should be checked as different components require more power depending on your hardware. The GPU requires more amount of power.
GPU also known as Graphics Processing Unit is considered to be the most expensive hardware of the computer. A good Graphics Card is required to run graphical intensive softwares. Example.., Video editing, 3D designing, Video games etc., GPU is necessary for a computer to operate because the display works on graphics. GPUs are also bought by scalpers for mining of crypto-currencies. Due to scalpers GPU stocks are running low which in turn makes it more expensive for the average consumer to buy.
HDD / SSD is the part of the computer which stores all the data be it user made or system made. HDD stands for Hard Disk Drive whereas SSD stands for Solid State Drive. The main difference between these 2 hardware is that HDD is comparatively slower than SSD. While building a new PC, the operating software should be installed on the fastest storage device ie., SSD. SSDs are expensive and has less storage space compared to HDD but the performance it offers makes it a requirement. Normally on HDD the boot up time will be 1-2 minutes whereas, SSD takes only 5-10 seconds to boot up.
Case is the protective shell of the computer. All the computers are kept inside the case for protection. Computer case also acts as a shield against static electricity which damages the components. The temperature of the air is maintained with the help of case fans which usually comes with the computer case. The case also connects with the motherboard. This connection is used for powering and shutting down the PC.
Coolers can be liquid coolers or fan coolers. These coolers are important as it helps in controlling the temperature of the components. During heavy processing the CPU and the GPU temperature rises above 70-80 degree Celsius. Temperatures above 90 degrees causes damage to both CPU and GPU, therefore coolers are important. Case coolers helps in directing the flow of air which in turn reduces the temperature of GPU, while CPU coolers cools the CPU and the hot air is exited out of the computer case.
For a user who uses only word processing software or for office use the normal requirements are:
CPU – Intel Pentium
GPU – Integrated
Ram – 2 to 4 GB
Storage – 250-500 GB
For Graphic designers, Youtubers who edits and create designs, the requirements are:
CPU – Ryzen 3 or Intel i5
GPU – Mid range GPU
Ram – 8 – 16 gb
Storage – 1-2 TB
For a user who plays video games and require intensive graphical capabilities, the requirements are:
CPU – Ryzen 7 or Intel i7
GPU – Nvidea GTX 2090; High end GPU
Ram – 16 -32 gb with more than 3000 MHz
Storage – 2-3 TB
Any creative suggestions please comment.
– Nekhil Binoy